Sports drinks contain carbohydrates, sodium and potassium. Water can help with dehydration but it does not provide energy (carbohydrates) for muscles or electrolytes (sodium and potassium) to reduce cramps. Sweating causes water and sodium loss through the skin.

Research shows that people will drink more of a sports drink than plain water, which promotes hydration thus reducing dehydration.

Water does not contain sodium, which is critical for helping maintain hydration and help nerves fire and muscles work. Sodium reduces the risk of cramps and helps increase blood flow to muscles and skin.

Sodium, which stimulates fluid absorption, maintains the desire to drink, helps the body retain water, and enhances taste. Taste preferences change during and after exercise, such that we prefer slightly “salty” beverages.

No carbonation, which can cause stomach discomfort.

No caffeine, which can promote dehydration.

“Energy drinks” are not meant to be consumed before

Muscle Cramps – Result from the trifecta of salt depletion, dehydration, and muscle fatigue. If you are a “salty sweater” (sweat tastes salty, sweat stings your eyes, you have a white ring on dark clothes, and/or cramp often) you need extra salt throughout the day. Try eating pretzels, peanuts, soups, cheese pizza, etc to combat cramping. You may also need a sports drink with extra sodium. Bananas may help with potassium loss but they do not help replace sodium.

If you feel cramps coming on, stop activity, gently stretch and massage the cramped muscle. Ice application may be useful. And drink up!